Taxi from Chania Airport to Malia

Malia, located 35km east of Heraklion, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Crete. Its name means “flat area” and it is situated on a fertile plain, known throughout Greece for its delicious bananas grown in the area’s greenhouses. In the past, Malia was a small coastal village with few residents, but in recent years it has seen rapid growth and expansion in all directions.

Known as the “party town” of Crete, Malia is popular among young tourists for its three “s” holidays – sand, sea, and sex. The town boasts a huge beach and a lively nightlife, with thousands of tourists drinking and dancing in the clubs until dawn. In the early morning, Malia can resemble a bombed landscape, with drunken partygoers staggering back to their hotels.

Malia has two main roads that meet at the center of town, in front of the church of Saint Nektarios. The first, a pedestrian street, connects the old village with the beach and is lined with clubs and bars. The second road is full of shops, cafes, supermarkets, banks, and clinics, offering a much calmer atmosphere.

Aside from its wild nightlife, Malia is also famous for its archaeological site – the third-largest Minoan palace in Crete, located in position Chryssolakkos or Tarmaros. This was once the home of King Sarpedon, son of Zeus and brother of King Minos. The palace was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times before its final destruction in 1450BC. Golden treasures have been found in tombs near the palace, including the famous bee jewel now exhibited in the archaeological museum of Heraklion. The old village of Malia also offers a glimpse into its past, with narrow traditional streets and several churches, including the unique church of Panagia Galatiani, built with milk instead of water.

For a peaceful escape from the bustling town, visitors can take a 15-minute drive to the traditional village of Krassi. The route crosses a wild gorge and leads to the central square, where a huge plane tree stands. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at one of the village’s taverns and explore the narrow streets. The square also features a spring with clean cold water. For those arriving at Chania Airport, Malia is 180km away and takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes by taxi. At MyCreteTaxi, visitors can book a fast and convenient transfer to Malia.